China World Robot Conference in Beijing recently highlighted significant advancements in humanoid robot technology, focusing on affordability and innovation. The event underscored China’s ambition to lead in humanoid robot development, with companies showcasing cutting-edge and cost-effective components.
One standout was Wisson Technology from Shenzhen, known for its flexible robotic arms. PWisson’s arms use pneumatic artificial muscles for power and 3D-printed plastics for construction, unlike traditional robotic arms that use motors and reducers. This innovative approach drastically reduces production costs, allowing Wisson to offer its robotic arms for around 10,000 yuan ($1,404), about one-tenth the price of conventional arms. These affordable, pliable arms could soon be integrated into humanoid robots, as the company has already provided samples to international firms.
However, despite these advancements, some industry experts, like Yi Gang, founder of Shanghai-based Ti5 Robot, stress the need for improvements in the robotics supply chain. Yi pointed out that product reliability remains a significant challenge, particularly with critical components like harmonic gears, which play a crucial role in motion control. Due to high defect rates, Ti5 Robot can only produce limited quantities, which hampers broader industry progress.
President Xi Jinping endorses China’s push in robotics as part of a broader strategy, emphasizing the development of “new productive forces” in technology. This drive is reshaping traditional industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare, by integrating more sophisticated robotics.
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Gao Jiyang, founder of the robotics start-up Galaxea AI, noted that advancements in autonomous driving—viewed as a form of robotics—are fueling progress in the field. As the conference concluded, Premier Li Qiang echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a stable supply chain and expanding the use of robots across various industries to secure China’s place on the global stage.